Articles on Biology topics quite helpful for researchers

Here we will explain what is the difference between the esophagus and the trachea. If you are confused about these two vital parts of the body, take a look at the differences below.

• Functions: The first and most obvious difference is that the trachea is a part of the respiratory system, while the esophagus is part of the digestive system. Because they belong to different systems, they perform independent functions!
• Structure: The trachea is a strong and wide tube that helps transport air to the bronchi. It is a very important part of animals that breathe through their lungs.

Because it supplies oxygen to the body, it is very important that the trachea remains open at all times. Some allergic reactions can cause inflammation of the trachea, so the person faces imminent death if they do not receive timely medical treatment.

The esophagus is smaller and more flexible in structure. It is the link between the mouth and the stomach. The muscular movements of the esophagus produce the passage of food from the mouth to the stomach cavity.

The esophagus and trachea are approximately in the same place. They are separated by the epiglottis, a small flap that protects the trachea when something is swallowed.

• Length and location: The trachea is formed by a series of semicircular cartilaginous rings. This prevents the trachea from collapsing. It is 9 to 15 cm long. It is in front of the esophagus. The esophagus is a muscular tube approximately 25 inches long.
• Parts: Another difference between the two is its structure. The trachea has thoracic and cervical parts. It extends from one end of the larynx.

The esophagus, on the other hand, has three parts: the cervical, abdominal and thoracic parts. It extends from the lower side of the pharynx to the cardiac opening to the stomach. It has a series of restrictions right where it originates. Food particles can be housed in these areas.
However, the structure of the esophagus is surprisingly flexible, it can swallow almost anything!

• Blood supply: Another important difference between the two is your blood supply. The esophagus is supplied by arteries in the neck, thorax and abdomen.

However, the trachea is supplied primarily by the lower arteries of the thyroid.

SUMMARY

• The trachea is a part of the respiratory system, while the esophagus is a part of the digestive system. The trachea carries air while the esophagus transports food.
• The esophagus is a longer and more flexible tube.
• The trachea has two parts, but the esophagus has three.
• The trachea is supplied by blood through the lower thyroid arteries, while the esophagus is supplied by different arteries in different parts of the body.

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